SUMMARY

BEHAVIOR: Largely arboreal, will move into 'S' position and bite defensively but prone to calm down over time

SIZE: Small - 40-60cm

OTHER: Rear fanged and technically venomous but not known to be dangerous to humans

QUICK ASSESSMENT 0-10

GALLERY

IMPORTANT: Many snakes have significant variance in coloration and pattern even within the same species. There can also be extreme differences in appearance from juveniles to adults so it is important to never assume you have properly identified a snake.

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

Large Spotted Cat Snake - Boiga multomaculata

Mature

DESCRIPTION

Usually tan body with dark brown spots, sometimes lighter grey still with dark brown spots. Head usually displays two broad strips running front to back. Large gold eyes with vertical pupils. Many spotted cat snakes are largely arboreal and have long thin necks with exceptionally long thin tails. Head can flatten slightly when defensive appearing similar to vipers. Black and white spotted belly and a peaked keel shaped back. As a technically rear fanged snake they are mildly venomous but there are no known cases of serious envenomation.

BEHAVIOR

The Many Spotted Cat Snake is a largely arboreal snake and as such is prone to seek out high ground when confronted. They also commonly display initial aggressive behavior by positioning their front half into a defensive 'S' position. They will strike with largely false bites and occasionally real hits, but their diminutive size renders any genuine bite relatively harmless. Many Spotted Cat Snakes are also prone to calming down shortly after displaying their initially aggressive behavior. (Click here if the video block does not load:https://youtu.be/IaonhbylZUI)

HABITAT

Due to their largely arboreal nature Many Spotted Cat Snakes are generally found in forested areas, often close to some water source. They have also been observed hanging from branches over water possibly hunting for fish or amphibians. During the day they hide in hollow logs or under ledges closer to the ground.

MISTAKEN IDENTITY

NO SNAKE SHOULD EVER BE HANDLED BY ANYONE BUT EXPERTS: The Many Spotted Cat Snake is a relatively uniquely patterned snake and is difficult to mistake with other species especially when considering their arboreal behaviors. However, it does bear a resemblance to the very uncommon Pointed-scaled Pit Viper which is highly venomous and bites readily.

HongKongSnakeID.com and its owners cannot be held responsible for any problems or injury caused by the misidentification of snakes or application of advice obtained on this site. Never touch or approach a snake in the wild and use this site as reference only. If bitten always seek medical attention.